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Inside the Mountain God Temple, only Lin Ning and the Princess of Yue Ming County remained. They carefully carried the bloodied and unconscious Xiong Yanbi to a corner of the temple, where the ground was overgrown with weeds. Lin Ning crouched down, gently placing his right hand on Xiong Yanbi's wrist to check his pulse. He felt that Xiong Yanbi's heartbeat was exceptionally weak, flickering like a candle in the wind, ready to extinguish at any moment. Lin Ning's expression grew serious as he unhesitatingly propped Xiong Yanbi up against the wall. Taking a deep breath, he circulated his vigorous inner energy and slowly placed both palms on Xiong Yanbi's back. In an instant, a powerful stream of energy surged into Xiong Yanbi's body like a torrent.
Time passed slowly, and beads of sweat began to form on Lin Ning's forehead, yet he remained fully focused on delivering his energy, not daring to relax for even a moment. After a while, Xiong Yanbi, who had kept his eyes tightly shut, finally began to respond and slowly opened his eyes. Seeing Xiong Yanbi awaken brought great joy to Lin Ning. He quickly took out some provisions and water from his pocket and fed them to Xiong Yanbi. Once Xiong Yanbi regained some strength, Lin Ning took out the healing ointment he carried with him and gently applied it to Xiong Yanbi's gruesome wounds. Gradually, Xiong Yanbi's consciousness became clearer, and he recounted his recent experiences to Lin Ning.
It turned out that Xiong Yanbi had inadvertently found himself among the troops led by Yuan Chonghuan. Coincidentally, a soldier in the army discovered his true identity. This young soldier was eager for recognition and, disregarding the consequences, secretly sent a message via pigeon to report Xiong Yanbi's whereabouts to the court. Upon receiving this confidential report, the court immediately issued an order for Yuan Chonghuan to capture Xiong Yanbi without delay. Yuan Chonghuan felt helpless but knew he could not defy imperial orders; he had no choice but to think of a way to deal with the situation. Ultimately, after much planning, Yuan Chonghuan crafted a false narrative of Xiong Yanbi's escape in an attempt to deceive everyone.
However, shortly after Xiong Yanbi escaped from Shanhaiguan, he encountered a large number of soldiers sent by the court who pursued him relentlessly. Facing an overwhelming tide of enemies, Xiong Yanbi showed no fear; relying on his exceptional martial arts skills and intelligence, he fought back against the soldiers. Yet ultimately, two fists could not contend with four hands, and gradually he began to feel overwhelmed. Despite this, Xiong Yanbi gritted his teeth and continued to resist while retreating southward. Due to prolonged combat and the disparity in numbers, he unfortunately sustained severe injuries and was nearing his limit. Just when life and death hung in the balance, fate intervened as he fortuitously encountered Lin Ning passing by. Seeing that Xiong Yanbi was gravely injured and on the brink of death, Lin Ning did not hesitate to help him, ultimately saving his life.
Once Xiong Yanbi regained some strength, Lin Ning softly asked, “What are your plans moving forward, Uncle Xiong?” Hearing this question, Xiong Yanbi fell silent for a long time before letting out a long sigh and slowly replied, “Alas! The current emperor is foolish and incompetent; he listens to slanderous words that have led treacherous officials to take power while loyal subjects suffer injustice. The world is now in chaos; common people are displaced and suffering greatly. I have only my patriotic aspirations but no place to realize them; I have been wronged by treacherous people to this extent. It truly makes one feel disheartened! From now on, I have no desire to involve myself in court matters; I just wish to retreat into the mountains and live as an ordinary fisherman or woodcutter for the rest of my days.” Upon hearing these words from Xiong Yanbi, an indescribable sadness surged within Lin Ning’s heart. Once upon a time, Xiong Yanbi was a great hero who was loyal and dedicated solely to serving the country and its people! But now he had fallen into such tragic circumstances; it was truly heart-wrenching.
Suddenly, the sky outside darkened ominously as fierce winds howled; thunder cracked and rain poured down heavily. The downpour continued unabated for an entire day and night, leaving Lin Ning and the Princess of Yue Ming County with very little food left. Without provisions and amidst the cold dampness surrounding them, Xiong Yanbi’s already weakened condition worsened due to excessive blood loss from his injuries; he developed a high fever and gradually lost consciousness again. Seeing this scene unfold made Lin Ning anxious; he hurriedly approached Xiong Yanbi with great care and began circulating his own energy once more, continuously sending it into Xiong Yanbi’s meridians.
As time ticked by slowly once more—after what felt like an eternity—Xiong Yanbi’s tightly shut eyes finally twitched slightly before slowly opening again. Seeing him awaken brought relief to Lin Ning’s anxious heart; he exhaled deeply as if releasing all tension at once. He turned towards both Xiong Yanbi and the equally worried Princess of Yue Ming County beside him and said: “I will go outside to see if I can find something for us to eat; you two stay here quietly without moving around—I will return shortly.”
Upon hearing this, Princess of Yue Ming County furrowed her brows slightly with concern as she urged him: “It’s pouring rain outside right now; the roads must be slippery and difficult—please be careful!” At her words, Lin Ning felt a sudden jolt in his heart; her tone and demeanor reminded him so much of Hu Xueyan’s tender concern whenever he faced danger. Overwhelmed by emotions at that moment made his nose tingle with unshed tears as he fought back against them. Taking a deep breath before responding earnestly: “Thank you for your concern, Princess; I will be cautious.” With that said, Lin Ning turned towards the entrance of Mountain God Temple; gently pushing open its slightly worn door before stepping resolutely into the torrential downpour beyond.
After about an incense stick's worth of time had passed without any sign of respite from the relentless rain outside—if anything it seemed only intensified—suddenly a brilliant flash of lightning tore through the pitch-black sky like a dragon splitting open night itself; illuminating everything around as bright as day for just an instant. Princess of Yue Ming County stood anxiously at Mountain God Temple’s entrance with her beautiful eyes fixed on the distance—but no matter how hard she strained her gaze she could not spot Lin Ning returning.
As seconds turned into minutes filled with growing anxiety within her heart finally reached its peak—unable anymore to suppress her worries—she resolutely pushed open that slightly worn temple door herself! In an instant fierce winds swept in along with torrential raindrops that seemed intent on swallowing up this small temple whole! Caught off guard by such sudden weather changes left Princess of Yue Ming County drenched instantly like a drenched chicken—but she paid no mind as she hurriedly shut the door tight behind her.
After regaining her composure somewhat amidst chaos outside—Princess of Yue Ming County carefully retrieved an exquisite wooden comb from within her robes before gently combing through her hair which had been tousled by rainwater earlier. Then she noticed that her originally translucent jade necklace around her neck had become soaked through from rainwater so she quickly took it off—using a clean handkerchief she began wiping it delicately.
At this moment—in silence sitting in one corner—Xiong Yanbi inadvertently cast his gaze towards Princess of Yue Ming County holding that jade necklace in her hand which sparkled under dim light like stars twinkling against dark skies! A look of surprise crossed over his face as confusion filled him clearly shocked by seeing such rare jade! Noticing this reaction from him made Princess of Yue Ming County smile faintly while thinking inwardly: “Hmph! This old man must be thoroughly amazed at my princess’s rare treasure…”
Meanwhile outside Mountain God Temple remained desolate—a wilderness filled with overgrown weeds surrounding rugged mountain paths only amplified by heavy rains making everything seem even more eerie! Alone amidst pouring rain struggled onward was Lin Ning who widened his eyes searching carefully around hoping for any signs of food or resources available nearby! After enduring long hours searching diligently—finally luck favored him when he spotted a plump wild rabbit! Excitedly drawing back his bow swiftly shot hitting its target accurately!
However despite having caught prey—Lin Ning’s heart remained heavy knowing full well that Xiong Yanbi was still alone inside Mountain God Temple worrying endlessly about him under such dreadful weather conditions! Realizing this urgency made him abandon collecting spoils instead carrying that wild rabbit hastily back toward Mountain God Temple!
Arriving breathlessly at Mountain God Temple front door—his hands trembled slightly pushing open its old creaking door fully expecting relief upon entering but what met him instead struck like thunderbolts against heart! There lay both Xiong Yanbi & Princess of Yue Ming County sprawled across pools crimson red blood—a horrifying sight indeed! Even more shocking was seeing sharp sword lodged deep within chest cavity belonging unmistakably belonged too Princess of Yue Ming County!
“Could it be… did Princess of Yue Ming County kill Xiong Yanbi?” This thought flashed through Lin Ning’s mind causing pain akin cutting through flesh itself unable comprehend reality unfolding before him—the grief overwhelming rationality instantly!
“Uncle Xiong! What happened? Open your eyes please—I’m Ning’er!” He desperately clutched onto lifeless body feeling icy coldness radiating off skin—tears streaming down cheeks blurring vision no matter how much called or shook nothing changed—the pallor remained unyielding showing no signs life left within!
Devastated beyond measure feeling suffocated by sorrow suddenly remembered about Princess of Yue Ming County! Forcing himself through immense grief quickly turned towards her direction finding thankfully still faint breaths escaping lips! Without hesitation pressed thumb firmly against pressure point hoping revive her!
Seconds dragged painfully long until finally after what felt like eternity—the princess stirred awakening slowly though clearly still dazed from earlier impact!
Lin Ning stared wide-eyed filled with shock mixed anger fixating intensely upon flustered face revealing panic-stricken expression across features! Not giving any chance for defense uttered swift strikes landing across cheeks leaving bright red imprints behind!
Princess felt burning sensation enveloping entire face as if scorched by flames instinctively covering visage while tears blurred sight catching glimpse lifeless form lying nearby realizing why fury directed toward herself!
Despite unbearable pain coursing through cheeks still managed muster trembling voice pleading: “Lin Ning—it’s not what you think! I didn’t kill old hero!” But all fell deaf ears since rage consumed every ounce reason left within him glaring daggers at her icy demeanor reflecting pure malice!
Faced with such murderous intent made Princess shiver involuntarily shaking head desperately trying explain: “Someone set me up! Old hero is unmatched skilled how could I possibly harm him?” Yet these words only fueled flames further igniting fury deep inside Lin Ning!
Teeth clenched brows furrowed tightly glaring fiercely demanding: “If Uncle Xiong hadn’t been injured—you’d never stand chance against him now taking advantage attacking cowardly—is utterly despicable!”
Tears streamed down princesses’ delicate features trembling body quaked under weight emotion struggling defend herself: “I lost consciousness after being struck! Everything else happened afterward—I’m completely unaware…”
Looking upon broken sobbing figure evoked no sympathy within Lin Ning—instead stirred feelings disgust rising uncontrollably realizing wouldn’t allow anyone responsible remain alive regardless circumstances surrounding events leading up tragedy unfolding here today!
Slowly turning gaze back towards lifeless body lying motionless beneath crimson stains recalling memories shared together throughout years spent guarding Great Ming Empire tirelessly sacrificing personal interests amidst political turmoil fighting corruption risking everything protecting innocent lives caught midst chaos…
Such noble spirit ultimately fell victim caught between Eastern Lin Party Eunuch Faction vying power leaving nothing but tragedy behind—a once-great hero reduced mere casualty lost forever wandering foreign lands unable find peace…
As thoughts spiraled deeper anger ignited raging inferno coursing veins burning brightly illuminating darkness consuming sanity whole eyes turning crimson red reflecting fury boiling beneath surface clenching fists tightly nails digging flesh drawing blood unnoticed amidst turmoil raging inside…
Through gritted teeth each word spat forth venomously directed toward princess: “Lin Ning won’t let whoever murdered Uncle Xiong live another day—vow vengeance shall be exacted!”
Princess looked upon wrathful figure trembling fearfully yet maintaining composure shouted back defiantly: “Hold on—this princess fears not death but until truth revealed cannot die unjustly!”
Her words stunned Lin Ning momentarily causing confusion yet swiftly replaced disdainful scoff challenging further: “What? Are you afraid? A precious jewel belonging Jin Dynasty’s Min family resorting lies cover truth?”
Faced with relentless interrogation left princess flustered stumbling over words trying clarify circumstances surrounding incident explaining: “When you went searching food—it left only me & old hero here… then storm raged fiercely blowing temple doors wide open!”
Seeing situation unfold forced princess act closing doors against elements raging outside yet rain soaked necklace around neck requiring immediate attention wiping clean thoroughly unaware consequences ensuing afterward…
Unexpectedly old hero expressed astonishment upon seeing necklace recognizing it belonged once gifted daughter Yuan Qingtian former leader Sun Moon Gang during joyous occasion when they adorned beloved child neck during celebration…
As realization dawned upon them both exchanged glances filled disbelief questioning origins connections linking past present intertwined destinies unraveling mysteries hidden depths waiting discovery…
Yet doubt lingered heavily weighing hearts burdened truths concealed beneath layers deception waiting patiently unravelled revealing secrets buried long ago…
Lin Ning remained silent after hearing her words, quietly gazing at the delicate face of the Princess of Yue Ming County, trying to catch even the slightest hint of a flaw or disguise in her expression. Time passed slowly, and the entire space seemed to freeze, the atmosphere so oppressive it was almost suffocating. Finally, after a long and torturous silence, Lin Ning spoke softly, “I hope everything you’ve said is true and credible. Until the truth is revealed, I will not kill you. However, the most pressing matter at hand is to properly bury Uncle Xiong, to comfort his spirit.” With that, Lin Ning let out a deep sigh, heartbroken as he picked up Xiong Yanbi’s lifeless body and walked out of the Mountain God Temple.
Outside the Mountain God Temple, heavy rain poured down like a deluge, lightning streaked across the night sky, and thunder roared deafeningly, as if heaven itself was crying and raging for Xiong Yanbi’s tragic fate. The torrential rain lasted throughout the night without any sign of letting up. Lin Ning sat quietly beside Xiong Yanbi’s cold corpse, oblivious to the rain soaking his body. His eyes were bloodshot, and he looked utterly worn out. Since losing his beloved Hu Xueyan and now witnessing Xiong Yanbi’s brutal demise, these successive blows had left him in anguish and despair. Yet he bore the immense pain within him, vigilantly guarding Xiong Yanbi throughout the night without closing his eyes.
At last, on the morning of the second day, the sky gradually cleared up, and a gentle breeze blew through after the rain, bringing a sense of freshness and tranquility. Lin Ning slowly lifted Xiong Yanbi’s heavy body and trudged to an open area behind the Mountain God Temple. He took out a black gold dagger and began to silently dig a grave. Each stroke seemed to drain him of all his strength, but he paid no mind, focused solely on giving Xiong Yanbi a resting place. After much effort, the grave was finally ready. Lin Ning carefully placed Xiong Yanbi’s body inside and gently covered it with earth so that this once-mighty Minister of War could rest in peace. He gazed at the freshly mounded grave before him, filled with endless grief and anger.
“Uncle Xiong,” Lin Ning gritted his teeth and vowed quietly, “Ning'er swears before heaven that I will find your true murderer! No matter what it costs me, even if I have to chase them to the ends of the earth, I will personally slay my enemies to avenge this blood feud!” With that, he knelt down on both knees and respectfully bowed three times toward Xiong Yanbi’s grave. The crisp sound of his forehead striking the ground echoed loudly in the stillness of that open space. After finishing his bows, Lin Ning slowly stood up and fixed his determined gaze on the distance. At this moment, Princess of Yue Ming County stood solemnly beside him; they exchanged a glance that conveyed their unspoken understanding. Then they turned resolutely and set off on their journey toward the Borderlands.
Since ancient times, heroes have always been lonely. Xiong Yanbi was a talented general during the late Ming Dynasty with remarkable achievements; his name would forever be recorded in history. Yet now this great figure could only rest here for eternity. But Lin Ning understood that while justice may be delayed, it would never be absent. He firmly believed he could avenge Xiong Yanbi and ensure that those who committed evil would receive their due punishment.
Reflecting on Xiong Yanbi’s life, he had been a capable general during a critical time for Liaodong when called upon in dire circumstances. With exceptional military strategy, he proposed a "Three-Party Deployment Plan," which provided clear guidance for stabilizing Liaodong's situation. However, he found himself in the complex and murky political arena of late Ming China. Factional struggles were fierce; various forces schemed against one another for personal gain while disregarding national safety and maliciously slandering Xiong Yanbi. After the Battle of Sarhu, Liaodong's situation became even more dire; although Xiong Yanbi exerted every effort to reorganize military preparations, he faced obstruction from Wang Huazhen. Wang Huazhen's blind confidence led to Guangning's fall into enemy hands. Consequently, Xiong Yanbi was held accountable for Guangning's defeat and became ensnared in an endless political whirlpool.
At the beginning of Emperor Chongzhen's reign, facing Liaodong's mess without discerning right from wrong, some ill-intentioned individuals continued to slander Xiong Yanbi before Emperor Chongzhen, shifting all blame onto him. The emperor believed these slanders without carefully considering Xiong Yanbi's past contributions and hardships; instead, he sought to punish him—a true case of a foolish ruler leading to national disaster. Furthermore, Xiong Yanbi's death accelerated the collapse of Ming Dynasty defenses in Liaodong and hastened its demise.
Xiong Yanbi was a victim of factional struggles between the Jiao Party and Eastern Lin Party during late Ming times; yet at a moment when national survival was at stake, he disregarded his own safety for the greater good—his spirit of protecting home and country will forever be praised by future generations.
This is precisely:
A towering monument stands tall with noble bones,
Its fragrance shall flow through generations.
With chivalrous spirit softening mountains,
Loyal hearts shine bright like sun and moon!
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